2013 Henri Giraud Argonne (gift boxed)

The 2013 Argonne is a typical Giraud Champagne built on textural opulence and vinous intensity. Apricot, nutmeg, spice, honey vanillin and new oak infuse the 2013 with striking dimension. Vinification and aging in 100% new oak exalts the natural richness of these old, south-facing vineyards in Ay. This is a fabulous showing for a vintage that saw quite a bit of rain and disease pressure right before harvest. As always, Argonne is a blend of 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay. Dosage is 6 grams per liter. Disgorged: December 15, 2020. 96 points

The 2013 Brut Grand Cru Ay Argonne is the latest in a series of superb releases from Giraud. Unwinding in the glass with notes of buttered toast, crisp yellow orchard fruit, honeycomb, warm spices and ripe stone fruits, it`s full-bodied, deep and vinous, with a layered core of concentrated fruit, incisive acids and an elegant pearly mousse. Long and penetrating, it`s finer-boned than its richer, more muscular 2012 predecessor; but like that more structured wine, it will reward bottle age. 97+ points